Piazza San Marco is the beating heart of Venice. A famous quote, often attributed to Napoleon, describes the Piazza as the “drawing room of Europe”. A fitting tribute, as Piazza San Marco showcases the city’s affluent and powerful past. Named after the stunning and unique Basilica at the East end of the square, it has been the centre of Venetian life – from executions, proclamations, fairs, tournaments, and even religious celebrations.

A public place has existed in the piazza in some form since the ninth century, expanding and changing shape over time. The columns of San Marco and San Theodoro along the water’s edge mark the historical entrance to the city. These columns served as waypoints for mariners and traders to anchor along the shore. They would typically then proceed through the Torre dell’Orologio (clock tower) along the Merceria path (still visible to today) to the Rialto, the financial and market centre of town.

The North side of the piazza is lined by the Procuratie Vecchie (Old Procuracies), the original homes of the Procurators of St Mark (officers of the Venetian Republic), built in the 16th century. To the North East, alongside the Basilica is the Piazzetta dei Leoncini, named for the two lion statues (the symbol of Venice). To the South side of the piazza, the Procuratie Nuove (New procuracies) were constructed, stretching around the corner to the water to Piazzetta San Marco.